Although they'd always had WA's faunal emblem, the numbat as their symbol (we'd also tidied up the previous version years back), we recreated it and took it a step further this time, incorporating the state's floral emblem, the kangaroo paw, in it as well. The interconnectedness of the two elements was intentional in speaking a message of the importance of balance in nature, in that without the existence of natural habitats, creatures would not exist.
The reference to the State’s colours of gold and black were also intemtionally chosen and modified slightly to promote a sense of patriotism and helps broaden perceptions that the Council is not just another ‘green’ group. Given the need to reframe the Council’s brand and message platforms in an inspiring, positive way, we needed to create a positioner that works for the long term, is more people focused and optimistic.
The positioner 'Look Forward' was created to tap into the realities of human nature and self interest in a positive, proactive way, because what do you do when you look forward? You think long term which is exactly the thing people don’t want to do when it comes to the environment! We believe that above all, CCWA needed to capture people’s imaginations of a future they can look forward to, that includes benefits for them and future generations and motivates them to want to take action.
A vital cause and a fantastic, dedicated and courageous group of people, many volunteers that we feel privileged to contribute to.
These annual awards, founded by the Conservation Council of WA (CCWA) over 20 years ago, recognise outstanding achievement by individuals and community groups working on environment and conservation issues in the Western Australian community. The pinnacle award, the Bessie Rischbieth Award, was established in honour of its namesake, a pioneer of the conservation movement in WA. It is awarded annually to an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the Western Australian environment.
We designed the awards with the environment in mind, not only in aesthetics, but also in delivery, and with sensitivity to the CCWA’s limited budget. Two striking block-print style illustrations were created, inspired by the vibrant, celebratory and almost firework aspect of gum blossoms. Two distinctive colourways were designed to distinguish the Bessie Award from the others, and we used the illustrations to adorn the certificates themselves and the scroll housing which all awards were placed into, except for the Bessie award, which is framed.
We love preparing these awards and meeting the wonderful, inspiring people who they are given to. Each year we decorate them with leaves from our own Illyarie gum in our front garden. The result is a beautiful and unique presentation, with a light footprint, but huge significance in their purpose.